Game Details

ESRB Rating: 

E (Everyone)

Number of Players: 

1-4 (via wireless single-card or multi-card)

The MX vs. ATV series has been the series by which all other motocross games are judged, but each new rendition doesn't always step up from the previous rendition, so how does this version measure up?

Reflex's new addition to the series features its "Rider Reflex" capability, which allows players to control the position of the rider on the bike, allowing for a more immersive experience. That, and the DS version includes trucks, both sport and monster. But we'll get to those momentarily.

The game follows much like its predecessor (read for full description). The menu system is slightly different, but in the end, it's a collection of Supercross (arena racing), Nationals (outdoor tracks), and Freestyle (stunt tracks). The controls were already superb, and the new engine only makes them better. The new level of strategy may frustrate younger players, but it's no more complicated to understand than Mario Kart, yet at the same time, it offers complexity to those wishing to squeeze a few extra points out of the game.

Reflex's Freestyle mode leaves Untamed's mode in the dust, offering true stunt arenas and non-linear directions, allowing players to go any direction they want, as long as they stay in the arena. This mode is probably the most difficult, which may be prohibitive to younger players but a great challenge to older ones.

Reflex also includes Trucks, both sport and monster. The two handle nearly identically, and they're much simpler to control than motorcycles or ATV's, since the Rider Reflex and stunt controls are disabled. While on the one hand, truck controls are easier, these trucks that should be able to drive over other vehicles somehow can't handle the slightest bump or even a little grass on the tires. Anytime a truck bumps a cliff side or gets a couple tires off the track onto the grass, the game treats it as a crash and backs the vehicle up to start again. Even when trucks start rubbing against each other, before any even comes to a halt, the game, like a boxing referee, pulls them apart and sends them back to their corners, which makes any kind of aggressive driving nearly impossible and extremely frustrating. As easy as the controls are, this draconian judging strips the fun out of truck racing.

As players play through the game, they unlock more and larger vehicles, including new costumes and vehicle colors (no form differences, just paint jobs). By playing Rival Races, players can unlock some names/costumes of famous drivers like Mike Alessi, Justin Brayton, Ryan Villopoto, and more, which may appeal to hardcore motocross fans. Overall, I found the selection limited and disappointing, but this is a minor aspect of the game, and more details wouldn't likely be noticeable during gameplay, anyway.

The game's sound offers decent effects, but the hardcore music may offend some parents/players, including some irreverent lyrics. The few included songs also get quickly repetitive. Thankfully, players can turn the music down or off, which most players will do after an hour or less of play.

Unlike its predecessor, Reflex for DS offers both single card and multi-card multiplayer, the latter offering more options, which is great for families who want to race together but not buy multiple copies of the same game, especially since the game offers 3 profile saves.

Overall, Reflex offers a nice step up from Untamed. It's still the best motocross game we've played, and this game gives a perfect example of the difficulty of improving excellence. Its polish outshines its flaws, so, though not perfect, it's a great game and is worth buying for about age 6 to adult.